If you just finished an internship and you’re wondering how to get a reference letter, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips on how to write a reference letter, examples of reference letters after an internship, and frequently asked questions that can assist you in creating a professional reference letter.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter After Internship
If you’re tasked with writing a reference letter after an internship, these tips can help you create a compelling document:
1. Start with a Title
The title of the reference letter should indicate the purpose of the letter. It should be clear that this is a reference letter for an intern.
2. Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship with the Intern
In the beginning of the letter, mention your name, job title, and your relationship with the intern. Explain how you got to know the intern and for how long you’ve worked together.
3. Highlight the Intern’s Strengths and Accomplishments
In the body of the letter, highlight the intern’s strengths, accomplishments, and skills. Provide specific examples of how the intern showed these strengths while working with you.
4. Share Something Positive About the Intern’s Character
Include a statement that speaks to the intern’s character, attitude or work ethic. This can give the reader a deeper understanding of the intern’s personality and how they might fit into a work environment.
5. Close with a Strong Recommendation
Close the letter with a strong recommendation for the intern. Encourage the reader to consider the intern for employment or further opportunities within the company. Express that you believe the intern would be an asset to any team they work with in the future.
6. Edit and Proofread
Always edit and proofread the letter before submitting it. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes. Make sure the letter is concise and easy to read.
Examples of Reference Letters After Internship
Letter of Recommendation – Marketing Intern
Dear Hiring Manager,
As the Marketing Director of ABC Company, I had the opportunity to supervise Jane Smith during her 12-week internship in our marketing department. Jane impressed us with her analytical skills, creativity, and attention to detail. She quickly became an asset to our team and was able to take on various projects that contributed to the success of our campaigns.
Throughout her time with us, Jane demonstrated the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Her enthusiasm, positive attitude, and willingness to learn was evident in everything she did. I have no doubt that Jane would make a great addition to any marketing team and I highly recommend her for future employment.
Best regards,
John Doe
Marketing Director, ABC Company
Letter of Reference – IT Intern
Dear IT Manager,
I am writing to recommend Jordan Lee for any IT position within your company. Jordan was an intern in our IT department for six months and proved to be an invaluable addition to our team. Jordan was able to hit the ground running and make significant contributions to several ongoing projects.
During Jordan’s time with us, we were impressed by his versatility, technical skills, and ability to learn new technologies quickly. He was able to troubleshoot and resolve complex issues, which proved to be instrumental in the successful completion of several projects. Jordan’s excellent communication skills, positive attitude, and great work ethic made him a pleasure to work with.
I highly recommend Jordan for any future IT positions and am confident that he would make a great addition to your team.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
IT Director, XYZ Company
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ask for a reference letter after an internship?
You can request a reference letter by sending an email to your supervisor or the person who supervised you during the internship. Be polite and professional in your request, and provide them with ample time to complete the letter. It’s also a good idea to remind them of your accomplishments and the skills you developed during your time there, to help them write an effective letter.
What should be included in a reference letter after an internship?
A reference letter after an internship should include an introduction, information about the intern’s job responsibilities and accomplishments, their strengths, and a closing recommendation. The letter should also be written on company letterhead (if possible), and signed by the person writing the letter.
Can I provide a reference letter from my internship if I didn’t have a great experience?
If you had a less-than-optimal experience during your internship, it’s best to not ask for a reference letter. Instead, focus on building relationships with other professionals in your field who can speak to your strengths and work ethic.
How many reference letters should I ask for after an internship?
You should aim to get at least two reference letters after your internship. One from your direct supervisor and one from someone else who worked closely with you during your time there.
How long should a reference letter after an internship be?
A reference letter after an internship should be about one page long, or 500 words. It should be concise, well-written, and highlight the intern’s strengths and accomplishments.
How far in advance should I ask for a reference letter after an internship?
You should ask for the reference letter at least two weeks in advance of when you need it. This will give the person enough time to write the letter and ensure that they can provide you with a quality document.
Conclusion
A reference letter after an internship can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in the future. With the tips, examples and frequently asked questions provided in this article, you should have a better understanding of how to create a professional and effective reference letter.